Dart Boards in India: Cork, Bristle or Magnetic? How to Choose Your First Board
Home game rooms are getting a dartboard. Here is how cork, bristle and magnetic boards differ, how to set one up properly, and what each costs.
Dart boards in India: why more homes are adding one
Darts is a social game that needs very little space, which is why more Indian flats, offices and game rooms are putting up a board. If you are buying your first dart board in India, the main decision is the board type: cork, bristle or magnetic. This guide explains the differences, the correct hanging height and distance, and which board suits which household.
Types of dart boards
Bristle dart boards
The traditional board. Bristle (sisal) boards are made from compressed fibres that close up around the dart point, so holes seem to heal and the board lasts a long time. They are the standard for serious play. The Bristle Dart Board 908 (₹3,999) is the premium choice in our catalogue and suits regular players and clubs.
Cork dart boards
Cork boards are a middle option: they accept darts easily and are generally cheaper than bristle. They can bounce fewer darts than low-quality bristle boards, but wear tends to show sooner with heavy use. The Cork Dart Board 904 (₹1,399) is a sensible pick for a family game room.
Magnetic dart boards
These use magnetic darts with blunt tips, so there are no sharp points. That makes them the safest option for homes with children and for offices or hostels. The trade-off is a different feel from steel-tip darts. In our range, the Magnetic Dart Board 912 (Extra Small) (₹899) is a compact starter and the Magnetic Dart Board 903 (Large) (₹1,599) gives a bigger target.
Cork vs bristle vs magnetic at a glance
| Board | Best for | Safety | Typical price here |
|---|---|---|---|
| Magnetic | Kids, casual play | No sharp tips | ₹899 to ₹1,599 |
| Cork | Family game rooms | Steel-tip darts, adult supervision | ₹1,399 |
| Bristle | Regular and serious players | Steel-tip darts, adult supervision | ₹3,999 |
How to set up a dart board properly
- Height: the centre of the bullseye should be 5 feet 8 inches (173 cm) from the floor.
- Throw distance: 7 feet 9.25 inches (237 cm) measured horizontally from the face of the board to the throw line for steel-tip darts.
- Lighting: light the board from above or from the side so your shadow does not fall on it.
- Wall protection: use a backboard or a surround so missed darts do not mark the wall. This matters in rented flats.
- Clear space: keep people, pets and glass away from the throwing area.
Choosing for your situation
With children in the house, go magnetic and keep sharp-tip darts out of reach. For an office pantry or hostel common room, a magnetic board avoids accidents. For adults who plan to play weekly and practise their scoring, a bristle board will last the longest. Cork sits in the middle for a mixed household.
Darts also pairs well with other indoor games. Our Diwali holidays family games guide has more ideas for keeping everyone active at home.
Looking after your board
Rotate a bristle or cork board occasionally so wear spreads evenly, and keep it away from damp walls, since humidity damages cork and sisal. Store darts in a case so points do not get blunted or bent. Never leave steel-tip darts within reach of small children.
Shop the gear
- Magnetic Dart Board 912 (Extra Small) (₹899)
- Cork Dart Board 904 (₹1,399)
- Magnetic Dart Board 903 (Large) (₹1,599)
- Bristle Dart Board 908 (₹3,999)
Related reading
- Diwali Holidays at Home 2026: Family Sports and Games to Keep Everyone Active
- Monsoon Indoor Games for Kids in India: Carrom, Chess and Table Tennis Gear Guide
- Apartment Society Sports Tournaments in India (Winter 2026)
Frequently asked questions
What is the right height to hang a dart board?
The centre of the bullseye should be 5 feet 8 inches (173 cm) above the floor, with the throw line 7 feet 9.25 inches (237 cm) from the board face for steel-tip darts.
Are magnetic dart boards safe for kids?
Magnetic boards use blunt magnetic darts, so they are generally safer than steel-tip boards, but children should still be supervised and darts should not be thrown at people.
Which is better, a cork or a bristle dart board?
Bristle boards are the standard for serious play and tend to last longer with regular use. Cork boards are a good lower-cost choice for casual family games.
